Catherine Russell is a celebrated American jazz and blues vocalist whose rich musical heritage and powerful voice have made her a standout performer. From her early days as a backup singer to her acclaimed solo career, she masterfully interprets vintage jazz and R&B, captivating audiences with her warmth and clarity.
Catherine Russell is a remarkable American jazz and blues singer born in 1956, hailing from a deeply musical lineage. Her father, Luis Russell, was a celebrated pianist, composer, and bandleader who worked as Louis Armstrong's musical director. Her mother, Carline Ray, was an equally pioneering figure, being a vocalist, guitarist, and bassist who performed with iconic groups such as the International Sweethearts of Rhythm.
Russell's professional journey began at the tender age of 7, performing as a dancer with Katherine Dunham's company at the Metropolitan Opera. Following her graduation from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she launched a successful career as a backup singer and multi-instrumentalist. This path enabled her to work with towering figures in the music scene, including:
In the mid-1980s, Russell found herself regularly performing at a Manhattan club and was invited onstage by Donald Fagen of Steely Dan. This led to her participation in the "New York Rock and Soul Revue" tour in 1992, and when Steely Dan reunited in 1993, she was a part of their touring band until 1996.
In 2002, Russell joined David Bowie's band, contributing vocals and playing various instruments during his Heathen Tour and Reality Tour. Her tenure with Bowie was transformational, providing her with opportunities to broaden her artistic range.
In 2006, at her husband Paul Kahn's encouragement, Russell embarked on a solo jazz career by releasing her debut album Cat. This pivot marked the onset of a "mid-career surge," establishing her as a preeminent interpreter of vintage jazz and R&B tunes. Her discography includes:
Her work has consistently been celebrated, earning an array of accolades, including the German Record Critics' Award and the Prix Decouverte from Hot Club de France. Her album Strictly Romancin' also garnered the Prix du Vocal Jazz from L'Academie du Jazz.
Catherine Russell has garnered Grammy nominations for:
Russell's music draws heavily from jazz, blues, R&B, and the Great American Songbook, elevating classics from the 1920s to 1940s. Her voice is lauded for its warmth and clarity, echoing the timeless appeal of past jazz and blues greats. Live performances at venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, as well as at global jazz festivals, have further solidified her standing in the jazz world.
Beyond her studio recordings, Russell has made significant contributions to film soundtracks, like Boardwalk Empire and the Buddy Bolden biopic Bolden. Her dynamic performances continue to attract new audiences while honoring jazz and blues's rich traditions.
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